Dental crowns are a great way to restore damaged or decayed teeth, providing functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, despite their many benefits, some people may experience problems with their dental crowns, which can cause discomfort and pain. In this blog post, We will discuss everything you need to know about crown tooth pain, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. We will also provide tips on how to prevent this type of pain from occurring.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, often referred to as a “cap,” is a type of dental restoration that fully cups over the part of a tooth or dental implant that lies at and above the gum line. Dental crowns are custom-made to fit over each tooth. They can be made out of a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, gold, or a mixture of these materials.
Crowns serve a dual purpose; they restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth, and they protect the weak tooth from further damage or decay. Once cemented into place, the dental crown completely covers the visible part of the tooth, providing a protective and aesthetically pleasing solution. Dental crowns are recommended in the following cases:
- To restore the shape, size, and strength of a broken or badly decayed tooth tooth
- Teeth weakened by large fillings
- After root canal therapy
- To anchor a bridge in place
- To cover a dental Implant
- For cosmetic reasons
Causes Crown Tooth Pain
Dental crown tooth pain can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Tooth decay underneath the crown: Since the tooth beneath the dental crown remains vital, there is a possibility of tooth decay or the development of a new cavity along the border of the tooth and the crown. This, in turn, may result in persistent pain within the affected area.
- Tooth nerve inflammation: If a root canal is not performed before placing the crown, the tooth will still contain nerves. In some cases, the crown may exert pressure on the traumatized tooth nerve, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Dental abscess: If the tooth beneath the crown becomes infected, it can lead to a dental abscess, an infection that forms near the root of a tooth. It can cause pain and swelling around the crown.
- Crown procedure: It is common to experience temporary discomfort after the crown procedure. Usually, this pain subsides within a few days. However, if the pain is severe or persists for more than two weeks, contact your dentist right away.
- Poorly fitted crowns: If the crown is too high or does not fit properly, it can cause discomfort when biting or chewing. Also, it can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to infection. Dental crowns must align properly with your bite, just like your other teeth.
- A fractured tooth or crown: The crack can lead to sensitivity to cold, heat, or even air.
- Teeth grinding and clenching: Teeth grinding (bruxism) can put pressure on the crown, causing pain.
- Gum recession: Receding gum around a crown can expose the sensitive tooth root, leading to sensitivity and pain.
- Loose crowns: When a tooth crown is not secured properly, it can move slightly and cause pain when biting or chewing.
Symptoms Associated With Crown Tooth Pain
If you are experiencing pain after the placement of a dental crown, contact your dentist as soon as possible. The following symptoms may indicate that something is not right:
- Pain or discomfort when biting, chewing, or touching the crown
- Pain that lasts longer than two weeks after the procedure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- A throbbing pain in the area that is not relieved by OTC medications
- Swelling around the crown
- Bad breath or taste in your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can restore your dental health quickly and safely.
Home Remedies for Crown Tooth Pain
If you experience discomfort or pain after having a dental crown placed, contact your dentist right away. While you wait for an appointment, there are several home remedies you can try.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve discomfort and pain associated with crown tooth pain.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth with it. The saltwater can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Refrain from eating hard foods: Avoid crunchy, chewy, or sticky snacks that can put pressure on the crown and cause further discomfort and pain.
- Herbal remedies: You can try using herbs and essential oils, such as peppermint oil or clove oil, to help ease the pain.
Although these home remedies can provide temporary relief, they do not substitute for professional dental care. If your crown tooth pain persists for more than a few days, contact your dentist right away.
Treatment Options for Crown Tooth Pain
The treatment for dental crown tooth pain depends on the underlying cause of the pain. Your dentist may recommend:
- Root canal treatment: If the pain is caused by an infection, your dentist may suggest root canal treatment to remove the infected tissue and restore the tooth.
- Gum disease treatment: Gum recession is a sign of advanced gum disease. Your dentist may need to perform a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and prescribe antibiotics to treat gum disease.
- Re-cementing or adjusting the crown: Your dentist may need to re-cement or adjust your crown if it has shifted out of place. This can help eliminate pain and restore the proper function of your teeth.
- Antibiotic medications: If an infection is present, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help reduce inflammation and prevent further spread of infection.
- Replacing the crown: Your dentist will recommend replacing the crown with a new one if it is damaged, the underneath tooth is infected, the gums are recessed, or the crown no longer fits properly.
- Nightguard: If you are grinding your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend using a nightguard to reduce the pressure on the crown and prevent future damage.
Prevention and Home-Care
Although there is no guarantee that you won’t experience any pain after getting a crown, there are some steps you can take to minimize discomfort and reduce the chances of experiencing crown tooth pain.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions: Your dentist will provide specific guidelines for caring for your new crown. Be sure to follow these instructions to keep your crown clean.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice daily with toothpaste containing fluoride, floss regularly, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to help keep the area clean and bacteria-free.
- Get regular dental checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional teeth cleaning and exams. This will help ensure that any problems are detected and treated early on.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can cause inflammation in the gums, leading to gum disease and recession.
- Wear a nightguard: If you have bruxism, wearing a nightguard can help reduce the pressure on your crown and prevent damage.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are a great way to restore the shape and function of your teeth. In some cases, some people may experience pain after the placement of a crown. This may occur due to several reasons, such as infection, gum recession, or a poorly fitted crown.
The treatment depends on the underlying cause, including root canal treatment, scaling and root planing, and replacement of the crown.
While waiting for your appointment with the dentist, you can try some home remedies to relieve the pain, such as saltwater rinses and OTC pain medications.
Good oral hygiene habits and regular dental checkups can help you avoid crown tooth pain. If you have questions about your crown or any other dental concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist.
